Argentina's Nicolas Tagliafico says back-to-back World Cup titles would be a 'dream'

The powerhouse from South America ranks among the leading contenders for the current year's competition across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, building on their triumph in Qatar four years earlier, spearheaded by Lionel Messi.

The 38-year-old Messi has announced that this marks his sixth and last World Cup appearance, yet Argentina arrives in robust condition for the finals, having led the South American qualification group.

Brazil with Pele achieved the most recent consecutive World Cup victories in 1958 and 1962, echoing Italy's earlier feat in the 1934 and 1938 instalments of the renowned international event.

"Only Brazil and Italy have won two consecutive World Cups, but that was a long time ago," Tagliafico shared with AFP.

"It's a dream, like our dream of winning one, but we have to focus on the day-to-day, one match at a time, without getting carried away, because in the end, it's the daily work that will pay off."

'Enthusiasm'

Argentina retains much of the core team that claimed the crown in Qatar four years back, though several promising youngsters have lately earned spots in the lineup.

Emerging talent Nicolas Paz from Como, defender Marcos Senesi of Bournemouth, and Valentin Barco of Strasbourg number among the fresh additions aiming for involvement in the World Cup.

Fellow Strasbourg player Joaquin Panichelli, who tops the scoring charts in France's Ligue 1 this term, had been anticipated to contribute to the World Cup effort, but his participation appears uncertain following a knee issue sustained during Thursday's training session.

Press accounts indicate a possible ACL tear, and given just three months remain until the World Cup begins, he is probable to sit out the entire affair.

"I think there's a mix of young players, perhaps less experienced, but with a lot of enthusiasm and a strong desire to wear the national jersey," Tagliafico remarked.

"I have a good feeling about this team, even if sometimes it seems like they're relaxing.

"But in competitions like this, the team rediscovers its best form, it gets its motivation back."

Currently with Lyon, Tagliafico recognises that the forthcoming 48-team edition spanning a full continent will differ markedly from the Qatar World Cup that Argentina captured, where all fixtures occurred near Doha.

"From travel to training and match venues, the truth is that nothing has been discussed regarding the overall organisation," he noted.

"We know we'll be in Kansas City (base camp), but apart from that, we know nothing...

"Furthermore, there's another crucial match, and we could have the misfortune, in the round of 32, for some unfortunate detail to eliminate us.

"It's a different World Cup, with many more teams, and I think it will be even more competitive."

Argentina meets Mauritius in a warm-up match on Friday, prior to resuming preparations versus Zambia on Tuesday.

They had been scheduled to encounter European title holders Spain in the Finalissima in Doha, though that fixture fell through owing to the conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran.

Their campaign to defend the title kicks off on June 16 versus Algeria in Kansas City, followed by outings in Arlington against Austria and Jordan.